Activity 2.12 Class 10 Science

This activity help students understand the concept of soil p^H and its importance for plant growth. Soil p^H plays an important role in determining the availability of nutrients in the soil.

Determine the p^H of Soil

Aim of the activity

To determine the p^H of soil and its importance for plant growth

Materials Required

   1. Soil sample

   2. Test tubes

   3. Distilled water

   4. Universal indicator or p^H paper

   5. Filter paper

   6. Funnel

   7. Beaker

   8. Dropper

Procedure

We will take 2 g soil sample in a test tube and add 5 mL distilled water in it. We close the test tube and shake well.

 We set up a filter paper in funnel and pour the soil water mixture onto the filter paper. We find the clear filtrate in the beaker.

Now we dip a strip of universal indicator paper or pH paper into the filtrate. We observe the colour change of the indicator.

Observation

 We find the p^H of soil filtrate 6.5. We know –

   1. If p^H is less than 7, the soil is acidic.

   2. If p^H is equal to  7, the soil is neutral.

   3. If p^H is more than 7, the soil is basic.

Explanation

Soil p^H affects the availability of nutrients in the soil. A slightly acidic to neutral soil p^H (6.0-7.0) is better for plants. Highly acidic and basic soils may lead to nutrient deficient.

The p^H of the soil varies on the different regions, soil type and environmental conditions.

Conclusion

The best pH value range for soil is approximately 6 to 7 as this is the range in which most nutrients can be readily available.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

   1. What is soil p^H?

Answer – Soil p^H is a measurement of acidity or basicity of the soil.

   2. Why is the soil p^H important for plants?

Answer – Soil p^H affects the availability of nutrients for plants. Very low or very high pH cause deficiency of nutrients.

   3. Can soil p^H be adjustable?

Answer – Yes, soil p^H can be adjustable by adding alkaline or acidic substance to the soil.

   4. What is the ideal p^H range for most plants?

Answer – The ideal p^H range is between 6.0 to 7.0.